General
Makerere University Hospital Develops RTI Mobile App and Information Centre
Makerere University students, staff and the general public will have easy and free access to Reproductive Tract Infection (RTI) health services courtesy of a new mobile application developed by Makerere University Hospital.
The Mak RTI mobile App launched on Friday 3rd May 2024 can be downloaded free of charge from the Google Play Store. The App enables users to learn more about reproductive tract infections, chat with the health care providers, book an appointment with a doctor as well as access other health services.
Makerere University Hospital has also established the RTI Information Centre dedicated to addressing matters pertaining to reproductive tract infections among Ugandans. To supplement the RTI App, Mak hospital has established an RTI clinic which will be open every Monday to provide services to those in need.
In Uganda, a number of people from the age of 15 to 49 years suffer from Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs). RTIs are defined as infections of the genital organs and include Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), endogenous infections and iatrogenic infections. Endogenous infections such as vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis are not sexually transmitted and can occur among people who have never had a sexual relationship. On the other hand, iatrogenic infections are caused by organisms introduced into the genital tract while doing improper medical procedures for instance unsafe abortions. Research at all levels indicates that if left untreated, RTIs are harmful to a person’s body and can lead to complications some of which may manifest later in life.
According to Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha, Director of Makerere University Hospital and the Principal Investigator of this research project, some of the symptoms of RTIs such as itching in the private body parts and/or experiencing pain when urinating, and/or severe pain during one’s menstrual cycle seem minor, but once left untreated, they advance into health complications such as blocking the fallopian tubes, affecting the ovary and womb, infertility among women, failure of the urinary system and in some cases cancer.
Prof. Byamugisha revealed that the Mak RTI App was developed to address the information gap on RTIs among the community. He observed that some Ugandans (15-49 years), do not have access to the right information about RTIs while others fear to talk about these types of infections because they affect reproductive organs or private body parts. He also mentioned the stigma associated with such diseases for instance referring to them as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and yet some of them even attack young people who have never had sexual relations. For example, Syphilis can be transmitted from the mother to the unborn child. Prof. Byamugisha pointed out that to avoid the stigmatization, such infections are better classified as Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs).
To address the information gap on RTIs, the Principal Investigator Prof. Byamugisha together with a team of researchers from other disciplines at Makerere University wrote a concept which they submitted to the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) funded by the Government of Uganda. Upon receipt of the funding, the research project team embarked on the development of the Mak RTI App and Mak RTI Information Centre. The Project Research team consists of: Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha, Prof. Sarah Ssali, Dr. Edith Nakku Joloba, Mr. Rogers Kamulegeya, Ms. Ritah Namisango, Dr. Solomon Aleper, Dr. Mukasa David Christopher and Dr. Hassan Mulema.
“We developed the app mainly to help the public access information about these infections. We feel this information should reach many people and that is why we found it wise to have the Mak RTIs Information Centre,’’ the Principal Investigator said.
Prof. Byamugisha emphasized the need for individuals to seek medical care and treatment as soon as any symptom related to RTIs is detected. He thanked the Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS) led by Mr. Samuel Paul Mugabi for playing a central role in the development of the Mak RIT App.
The Mak RTI Information Centre and Mobile App were officially launched by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Prof. Umar Kakumba represented by the Principal of the College of Health Sciences (CHS), Prof. Damalie Nakanjako.
The DVCAA commended the Director, Makerere University Hospital for bringing on board a multi-disciplinary research team to address the information gap on RTIs and health services in general. He also applauded the University Hospital for continuously coming up with health products and innovations in line with the University’s digitalization agenda. He underscored that the Mak RTI App and Mak RTI Information Centre would enable students, staff and the public to access the right information on RTIs and health services in general from any part of the country.
“As I launch the Mak RTI Information Centre and Mak RTI App, I am pleased to note that most disciplines such as health, social sciences, gender, communication and the media have participated in the processes leading to this research output. Matters of health should not be left to the doctors alone. Health should be a matter of concern for all of us. We can never have perfect health if we do not collaborate and bring different teams together,” said the Principal.
Prof. Nakanjako said the College of Health Sciences takes the lead in the utilisation of government funds to support research and innovation at Makerere University. She congratulated the Mak Hospital, which is under the College of Health Sciences, for conducting the research and coming up with the Mak RTI App.
She further highlighted that the College of Health Sciences exists to provide transformative education and research to meet societal needs. “Research is mainly to solve problems in the community, therefore, the Mak RTI App and Information Centre is an example of research that supports the community,” she elaborated. She appreciated the Ministry of Health for continually working with the College of Health Sciences to advance research in Uganda and beyond.
On behalf of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Richard Mugahi, Assistant Commissioner Reproductive and Infant Health, applauded the Makerere University Hospital, the research team and DICTS for developing the Mak RTI App. “In this digital era, this is what is expected. The young people are more digitally oriented. I also commend the shift from the term STI (Sexually Transmitted Infections) to RTI (Reproductive Tract Infections),” he said.
Dr. Mugahi expressed the readiness of the Ministry of Health to integrate the Mak RTI App into its digital products and services. He indicated that the Ministry of Health already has a hotline, and this would be linked with the University Hospital RTI App.
Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Public Relations Officer, and a Member of the Research team re-affirmed that the Mak RTI App presents a convenient and user friendly approach for students, staff and general hospital to access health services at the University Hospital. She urged all attendees to share information about the Mak RTI app widely so that it can reach everyone in need of RTI services.
On behalf of DICTS, Mr. Juma Katongole, the Principal Information Systems Administrator said that the development of the Mak RTI App is anchored in the DICTS mandate of working with the different units at the University to optimize and automate all university business processes/services. Mr. Katongole also assured the student leaders who attended the launch that the information received through the Mak RTI App will be treated with confidentiality and accessed by only the University Medical Team with the mandate to attend to students, staff and the public in general.
Responding to questions from student leaders from the respective Colleges and Halls of Residence, the Mak RTI Project Coordinator Dr. Hassan Mulema emphasized that the App is very secure and as such, users should not be worried about any information leakages. The medical team at Makerere University Hospital will continue to uphold matters of privacy, confidentiality and the ethical standards that govern the medical profession when using the Mak RTI App to provide services to students, staff and the general public.
The Mak Students’ Guild who attended the launch appreciated the University Hospital for coming up with the Mak RTI App, which is bringing the health services closer to the people. The student leaders pledged to popularize the Mak RTI App to the University community.
The launch of the Mak RTI App that was witnessed by medical practitioners, the Ministry of Health, Mak Student Leaders, Public Relations Office, DICTS, Journalists and staff from Makerere University Hospital was moderated by Ms Ritah Namisango assisted by Dr. David Mukasa.
Important notes: The Mak RTI App is a one-stop center for reproductive tract infection and other health services available at Makerere University hospital. The app enables users easily talk to medical officers for any services they may be in need of. The app is currently available for android users and can be downloaded on the Google Play Store using this link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.makererehospital.rti
On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.
Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.
A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.
Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction. The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.
“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.
Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda
Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”
He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.
According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.
The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.
Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.
He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.
Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.
Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.
In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.
The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.
The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.
Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.
Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.
Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.
The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.
Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.
The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.
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